Ruth Cadbury MP Welcomes Action on Students' Rent

University of West London taking over leases for residents of Brentford block

The Paragon accomodation block in Brentford

Brentford and Isleworth MP Ruth Cadbury has welcomed the decision by the University of West London (UWL) to take over the leases and rent for the third term for students staying in the Paragon development.

At the same time she has expressed regret that the landlord, NHG/Genesis were not willing to waive rent in the same way that other student accommodation providers have done in similar circumstances.

With many students having returned home and others unable to return due to the outbreak of the coronavirus there was significant uncertainty and anxiety over the rent that was due to be paid this week.

UWL have announced that they will take over the leases from those unable to return, from charity Housing Association Notting Hill/Genesis who own and manage the building.

Speaking after this decision Ms Cadbury said, "I know how worried students at Paragon have been about the demands for rent due yesterday. So when students contacted me I urgently wrote to the CEO of Notting Hill Genesis to ask for urgent protections for students at Paragon. With many having returned home, and having lost their jobs that help them pay their rent, it is simply unfair to make students pay when they are not able to stay here, and which they cannot now afford.

“I’m sorry that NHG/Genesis weren’t able to support the students in the way that other student accommodation providers have done at this time. However I’m very pleased that the University of West London have stepped in and offered to cover the leases for UWL students livings at Paragon. This is the right step and I know this will provide relief for UWL students.

“However I’m concerned that the same issues may remain for those who study at other colleges or universities and live in the Paragon student flats.

“I will keep standing up for students here and all local residents during this difficult time.’’

A Notting Hill Genesis spokesperson said, ”There has been no change in the lease arrangement between NHG and UWL and it is inaccurate to say that NHG has not been supporting residents. We are working closely with UWL to support students at this difficult time and the relationship remains that NHG leads on accommodation provision and services, with UWL responsible for student welfare and collecting rents."

April 17, 2020